CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow told a media conference today that Penang’s first light rail transit (LRT) project marks the beginning of several initiatives outlined in the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP).
The primary objective is to mitigate on-road travel costs for the people.
However, he stressed that while the Penang LRT project is a significant step, it alone may not fully alleviate the escalating traffic congestion issues in the state.
“This initial phase of the Penang LRT project marks a significant step forward by the authorities.
“However, it is just one part of the larger Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), which includes numerous other essential projects aimed at addressing the current challenges encountered by road users.
“As each project within the PTMP comes to fruition, it undergoes a series of critical processes, including design finalisation, land acquisition, and more, before becoming a reality,” Chow said during the media conference in Komtar earlier this afternoon.
He added that the Penang LRT project seeks to alleviate the strain of prolonged commutes for individuals, offering a viable alternative to spending extensive hours on the road.
Once completed, the new transport system will provide a convenient means for people to reach their workplaces efficiently.
The Penang LRT Mutiara Line project has been officially taken over by the Federal Government and is expected to take six years, with completion slated for 2030.
The contracts for the LRT project have been divided into three main components – the Silicon Island to Komtar contract (Segment 1), the Komtar to Penang Sentral contract (Segment 2) and the turn-key systems and rolling stocks contract.
It was understood that the Segment 1 Contract has been offered to SRS Consortium Sdn Bhd, the Project Delivery Partner (PDP) of the PTMP.
Gamuda Berhad, a leading engineering and construction company in Malaysia, and also the majority shareholder of SRS Consortium Sdn Bhd, will spearhead the construction (Segment 1) of Penang’s first-ever LRT.
Previously, Chow expressed confidence in Gamuda’s ability to manage traffic effectively during the implementation of the Penang LRT project, particularly in areas where construction will occur. This confidence stems from Gamuda’s track record of successfully executing railway projects, particularly in the Klang Valley region.
“While the construction phase may bring temporary inconvenience to affected areas, the completion of this project is poised to significantly benefit road users in the long term,” he added.
Chow further urged to all relevant non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and individuals, especially those who remain opposed to the LRT project, to consider the broader perspective.
He encouraged them to acknowledge the widespread support demonstrated by many Penangites for this initiative.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud